English National Opera (ENO) and Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) have announced the winner of the competition for the revitalisation of the ground floor foyer of the West End’s largest theatre, the London Coliseum: Robin Snell and Partners, the architect behind the multi-award winning Glyndebourne Opera Pavilion, the Island Pavilion at Wormsley and Arnolfini Centre for Contemporary Art.
The design will focus on the architectural qualities of the Grade II* listed building and reclaim the Edwardian elegance of its front of house spaces to reflect the legacy of this great 2,359 seat theatre.
Funded by Benugo
The first phase will concentrate on opening up the ground floor foyer, to provide uninterrupted views from the street, to create a sense of the excitement of the productions that take place within the Theatre. It aims to create a welcoming foyer space for a new wine bar and café.
Funded by restaurant group, Benugo, the first phase £1.2m renovation will revamp the ground floor and point towards the building’s future.
Cressida Pollock, CEO of English National Opera, said:“This is an exciting time for the London Coliseum. Artistic Director John Berry last year outlined his vision to open up the Coliseum and I’m delighted we’ve taken this project forward alongside our catering partner, Benugo. We look forward to throwing open the doors of the theatre and welcoming the public into the beautiful surroundings of this iconic building. For years, audience members have enjoyed Matcham’s masterpiece, now it’s time to share its splendour with many more people”
Turlough McNamara, Benugo Managing Director said:‘We’re proud to be part of the building’s future and are absolutely delighted to be involved in this project. The London Coliseum wine bar that is in keeping with the space is our top priority and we’re confident that we can do that with this exceptional team.’
The design proposal is currently at its initial design phase. ENO and Robin Snell and Partners will be seeking consultation from Westminster City Council, English Heritage and the Theatres Trust for the project. The work, subject to planning permission, will get underway in early 2016.
About Benugo
The Benugo brand stretches from a collection of award-winning high street stores to concessions within some of the world’s largest and most respected museums, public spaces and historic buildings including V&A, Natural History Museum, Ashmolean and Edinburgh Castle. Benugo have been operating at ENO since September 2014. It is Benugo’s first performance venue.